10 Reasons to Believe that Fungi and Mycelium Networks Are Sentient
1. Fungi and mycelium have been found to produce their own antibiotics, suggesting that they can think for themselves and make decisions.
2. Mycelial networks are capable of long-distance communication through the secretion of hormones like auxin, which suggest a level of awareness or sentience in fungal colonies.
3. Mycelium is able to transfer nutrients from one organism to another, indicating an understanding of the needs of other organisms as well as its own needs.
4. Studies have shown that fungi can learn from experience and remember it over time, demonstrating cognitive abilities similar to those seen in animals with brains.
5. Fungi are capable of producing their own food through photosynthesis, which suggests an ability to think and plan ahead.
6. Fungi are able to recognize the difference between edible and inedible materials, demonstrating a level of sentience.
7. Some species of fungi have been observed to make use of tools such as twigs for support or even for transportation purposes, showing an awareness or comprehension of their environment.
8. Mycelial networks can grow up to several miles long, indicating that they can “think” on a large scale as well as small one-on-one interactions with other organisms nearby them in the soil web.
9. Fungi are capable of forming mutually beneficial relationships with other organisms, suggesting that they may be able to understand the needs of others and have a sense of empathy.
10. Fungi are known to exhibit behaviors such as forming protective barriers around themselves when threatened, demonstrating an awareness of their environment and the need for self-preservation.
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